Midstate Update: Ryan Flaherty

The update: Flaherty, who played all of the 2012 season in the major leagues, found himself in a fierce competition for a roster spot in the majors this spring. Now that the Orioles, who took him from the Cubs in the Rule 5 draft last season, have the ability to send him to Triple A, some people inside the organization were debating if he should be sent down to the minors so he could get everyday at-bats in preparation for eventually being a full-time starter. Ultimately, Flaherty's defensive versatility - he can play second, third, shortstop and outfield - was too valuable for the team to overlook, despite his pedestrian spring (.216 avg., 3 HR) and he is starting the season in the majors. Should he spend the whole year with the Orioles, Flaherty will make $493,500.